Parrot Sketch Not Included: Twenty Years of Monty Python

"Parrot Sketch Not Included: Twenty Years of Monty Python" is a unique, comedic tribute to the wildly popular British comedy group, Monty Python, on the occasion of their 20th anniversary. Released in 1989, this special retrospective consists of a collection of the funniest, quirkiest, most memorable moments from Monty Python's history, stitched together with wit and charm by legendary comedian Steve Martin.

As a noted fan of Monty Python's work, Martin serves as the host and provides narrations, adding his personal anecdotes and insights into the group's legacy. Presented in a non-linear fashion, the film takes the viewers on a journey through Monty Python's surreal and absurdist comedic world, encompassing segments from both their television series "Monty Python's Flying Circus" and their renowned theatrical releases.

The film itself is named after one of Monty Python's most celebrated sketches, "The Dead Parrot Sketch", iconized by John Cleese and Michael Palin's hilarious performance. Interestingly, in a pastiche of their classic subversive humor, the infamous parrot sketch is notably absent from the film. This gag contributes a rather Python-esque meta-humor to the whole experience.

The film features the original comedic genius of all six members of the Monty Python troupe. Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin, all add their unique brand of humor, ranging from slapstick to intellectual and satirical skits. From the silliness of "The Ministry of Silly Walks", to the wit in "Argument Clinic", to the iconic musical number "The Lumberjack Song", this film showcases the collective genius of Monty Python and captures why they are still revered decades later.

The humor in "Parrot Sketch Not Included: Twenty Years of Monty Python" is undeniably British, with its eccentric wit and nod to British culture and society. Yet, it transcends national barriers, engaging audiences around the globe with its universally appealing oddness and hilarity.

Steve Martin's enthusiastic presentation guides the viewer through Monty Python's history. His American perspective provides an engaging counterpoint to the Britishness of the Python’s humor. Martin brings his famous humor and charisma to the table, making the transitions between sketches seamless and entertaining.

The film also does an excellent job of showing the innovative visual techniques of Monty Python, especially in their groundbreaking animation segments. Terry Gilliam's surreal and bizarre animations, often used as transitions in the original TV series, are showcased here to display the group's unrivalled creativity.

Fans of Monty Python will be delighted by this nostalgic compilation of their beloved sketches and skits. The journey through twenty years of Python history provides glimpses of the group's evolution and highlights each member's unique style and contribution. New viewers can also use this film as a starting point to understand the brand of Python humor that has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy.

"Parrot Sketch Not Included: Twenty Years of Monty Python" underscores the ongoing relevance of Monty Python's humor and reminds of the influence they've had on generations of comedians. The celebrated wit, the purposeful nonsense, the unexpected occurrences, all remain fresh and resonant. The humor that Monty Python brought into popular culture has undeniably stood the test of time, and this compilation, with Steve Martin at the helm, pays fitting homage to two decades of their comedic brilliance.

Despite being over three decades old, the film maintains its charm and humor, making it timeless in the realm of comedy. The film's unconventional narrative style, coined by Monty Python themselves, remains influential in presenting comedy. Whether you're a dedicated fan of Monty Python or a newcomer to their zany world, "Parrot Sketch Not Included: Twenty Years of Monty Python" offers an unforgettable laughter-filled ride into the heart of their comic legacy.